Every one asks, “Why?” My friends are terrifically supportive and murmur words of polite encouragement, except my friend Eric, who is a real climber. “KK, are you crazy? Hmmm, I am starting to get a little nervous. It is not a technical climb, just a hike – a hike in high altitude and freezing temperatures. Did I mention that I have trouble in Aspen, a mere 10,000 feet above sea level as compared to Kili which is almost double the height? Feeling a little jumpy, but shopping on-line for the right wardrobe and equipment calmed me down a bit, afterall, that is where my expertise lies. For a complete Packing List go to Packing for Kilimanjaro. For more info, please go to Climbing Kilimanjaro Part Two.

Layers, layers, layers. Here are my picks. Of course, we would look for a complementary color scheme, like this scrumptious orange sherbert, and went shopping at Athleta, Paragon and Patagonia.

Training? Oh yes, I am training and cramming the last 20 years of being in so-so shape into one month of grueling workouts. John, my incredibly supportive, intelligent spouse, encouraged the exploratory escapade, but when asked if he will be joining us on the 7 day adventure in deprivation, he practically screams, “ABSOLUTELY NOT” – and he IS in excellent shape.

Tim Lapage from Safari Experts, an outfitter that specializes in “off-the-beaten track”, personalized Safari Tours and Adventureshas assured me of the 98% success rate but if the high altitude causes one of us to turn back, he has the staff to do it. Oh dear! At this point I am not sure what is worrying me more; not making it to the top, or MAKING it to the top. But whatever may be, I will be dressed and geared to the 9’s. From various experts and afficionados, I have gleaned the following list of must-haves for my backpack.